Top San Antonio Magnet Fishing Spots for Beginners

Picture this: You’re standing along the San Antonio River Walk, tossing a magnet into the water, and whoosh—up comes a rusty coin or maybe even a lost tourist trinket! That’s the thrill of magnet fishing in the Alamo City, where every cast feels like a treasure hunt. If you’re new to this, magnet fishing is like a scavenger hunt for metal goodies using a strong magnet tied to a rope. It’s eco-friendly, a blast for families or solo adventurers, and a fun way to explore San Antonio’s waterways.

I’ve scoured the city to find five top magnet fishing spots in and around San Antonio, perfect for beginners. From urban rivers to nearby lakes, these spots are packed with potential for cool finds. Before you head out, always check local rules—some areas may require permits to keep our hobby legal and fun. Want the basics? Check out our How to Start Magnet Fishing: A Beginner’s Guide for all the newbie tips!

• Why It’s Great: This iconic river flows through San Antonio, collecting goodies like coins, tools, or even small trinkets from park-goers. The calm waters near Brackenridge Park are perfect for beginners.
• Accessibility: Easy to reach via car (3910 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212) with parking at the park. Paved trails make it family-friendly and stroller-accessible.
• Pro Tip: Toss near the river’s bends or footbridges—people drop stuff there all the time. Watch out for cyclists; they’re not fans of tripping over ropes!
• Nearby Perks: Brackenridge Park has picnic areas, restrooms, and the San Antonio Zoo nearby for a fun family day.

• Why It’s Great: Just south of San Antonio, this scenic river offers deeper waters with potential finds like fishing gear, tools, or old farm equipment. It’s great for beginners ready to level up.
• Accessibility: Drive to Medina River Natural Area (15890 TX-16, San Antonio, TX 78264). Ample parking and easy river access via trails, though some areas can be muddy.
• Pro Tip: Fish after a rain—currents stir up new treasures. Keep an eye out for turtles; they’re curious about your magnet!
• Nearby Perks: The natural area has hiking trails and picnic spots, perfect for a relaxed outing.

• Why It’s Great: This urban lake in central San Antonio is a beginner’s dream, with shallow waters yielding coins, jewelry, or small metal scraps from picnickers and anglers.
• Accessibility: A quick drive to 1103 Cincinnati Ave, San Antonio, TX 78201, with plenty of parking. Paved paths around the lake are great for families.
• Pro Tip: Cast near the fishing piers—lots of foot traffic means more dropped items. Don’t let the ducks photobomb your haul!
• Nearby Perks: Woodlawn Lake Park has playgrounds, picnic tables, and restrooms for a family-friendly vibe.

• Why It’s Great: About 20 miles southeast of San Antonio, this large lake is a magnet fishing hotspot with finds like anchors, fishing lures, or even boat parts. Calm coves make it beginner-friendly.
• Accessibility: Drive to 12991 Bernhardt Rd, San Antonio, TX 78263. Parking’s easy near public access points, with flat paths to the water.
• Pro Tip: Try near the boat ramps—boaters drop all sorts of goodies. Avoid getting your magnet stuck on underwater rocks!
• Nearby Perks: Calaveras Lake has picnic areas and restrooms, plus scenic views for a chill day out.

• Why It’s Great: This urban creek near Alamo Heights is a hidden gem, with shallow waters offering coins, small tools, or metal trinkets from nearby park activity. Perfect for newbies.
• Accessibility: Drive to 651 Devine Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209, with parking at Olmos Basin Park. Trails are flat but can be uneven, so wear sturdy shoes.
• Pro Tip: Cast near the creek’s footbridges—debris collects there. Watch for joggers; they’re not thrilled about rogue ropes!
• Nearby Perks: The park has picnic spots and open spaces, great for kids to run around.

Magnet fishing in San Antonio’s rivers and lakes is a blast, but the Texas heat and urban vibe bring some quirks. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own adventures:

• Safety First: Wear gloves—sharp metal in rivers can be a surprise. Use a strong rope (50+ feet) and bring a buddy, especially at busy spots like Brackenridge Park.
• Local Rules: Magnet fishing is generally legal in Texas public waters, but check with the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department or Texas Parks & Wildlife for permits, especially at Calaveras Lake. Avoid private property to stay trouble-free.
• What to Expect: Urban spots like Woodlawn Lake are loaded with small metal trash—think coins, tools, or bike parts. Lakes like Calaveras might yield bigger hauls but watch for murky waters.
• Family Fun Angle: Make it a game—my kids love guessing what we’ll pull up next. Pack snacks for a picnic at Brackenridge or Olmos Basin Park.
• Eco Tip: Haul out your finds and recycle them. Let’s keep San Antonio’s waterways clean for everyone!
• Funny Bit: If you snag a shopping cart, don’t try riding it down the River Walk—it’s not a new Alamo float (just report it if it’s stolen!).

Whether you’re a San Antonio local or just visiting, these magnet fishing spots are a blast for beginners and families. From the lively San Antonio River to the serene Calaveras Lake, there’s a treasure waiting for you. Grab your magnet, hit the water, and who knows—maybe you’ll pull up a piece of Texas history!

Share your hauls in the comments or tag us on socials—I’d love to see what you find. Ready to dive in? Sign up for our free beginner email series below for more tips.